Correlation between plasma steroid hormones and vitellogenin profiles and lunar periodicity in the female golden rabbitfish, Siganus guttatus (Bloch)

Reproductive condition of the black-lip pearl oyster Pinctada margaritifera during the lunar phase

This study analyzed the relationship between the lunar phase and the reproductive cycle of Pinctada margaritifera inhabiting Weno Island, Chuuk Lagoon, Micronesia. We measured indicators of maturity (gonadosomatic index [GSI] and sexual maturation-related genes) and investigated changes in the gonadal maturity stages (GMS) of P. margaritifera over lunar cycle. GSI was higher around the full moon. GMS of P. margaritifera were classified as the early gametogenesis stage, ripe and spawning stage, and spent and degenerating stage. A large percentage of oysters was observed in the ripe and spawning stage at the first quarter moon in female and the full moon in male as well as in the spent and degenerating stages at the third quarter moon in both sexes. In addition, the expression of doublesex- and mab-3-related transcription factor 2 (DMRT2) in the male P. margaritifera black-lip pearl oyster was the highest during the full and third quarter moon phases, whereas no difference in expression was observed with the lunar phase in females. In contrast, the expression of vitellogenin (VTG) was the highest in female P. margaritifera during the first and third quarters. No difference in expression was observed according to the lunar phase in males. The results suggest that the lunar phase directly affects the expression of sexually mature gonads in P. margaritifera black-lip pearl oyster.

Gonad recrudescence and annual sex steroid patterns in female goldspot mullet, Liza parsia reared in brackishwater pond

Goldspot mullet, Liza parsia is a commercially important fish of South East Asia, where its farming depends on wild seed resources due to unavailability of hatchery technology. It, therefore, is important to understand the annual reproductive cycle of female L. parsia in captivity. In this study, adult male and female L. parsia (body weight ranges: 45-90 g; total length ranges: 100-125 mm, age >1 year) were collected from the wild and reared in a brackishwater pond. Thereafter, fish were randomly sampled at monthly intervals to measure the hepatosomatic index (HSI), gonadosomatic index (GSI), levels of serum steroids (testosterone, T; 17β-estradiol, E2 and 17α-hydroxyprogesterone, 17-OHP), and oocyte growth. Results exhibited that female L. parsia undergoes six different maturation stages, namely I (oocyte diameter, OD: <100 µm), II (OD: 100-350 µm), III (OD: 350-400 µm), IV (vitellogenic oocyte, OD: 400-450 µm), V (ripe oocyte, OD: 450-550 µm) and VI (atretic oocyte, OD: 60-150 µm), with synchronous oocyte development. The highest (P < 0.05) HSI (1.96 ± 0.24) and GSI (12.01 ± 0.73) were recorded in December and January, respectively. Concentration of E2 gradually increased from August and reached its peak (807.67 ± 25.98 pg mL^-1, P < 0.05) in December. The level of 17-OHP (85.87 ± 0.91 pg mL^-1) was at its peak during the normal spawning month (January) (P < 0.05). Overall, the results indicated that L. parsia attains maturity in brackishwater pond, which is consistent with previous observations, and altogether provide the basis to develop a breeding technology in captivity through hormonal and environmental manipulations.

Lunar Cycle Influences Production of Tilapia (Oreochromis spp) Eggs in an Intensive Outdoor Production System in the Tropics

A robust body of evidence has demonstrated that the lunar cycle plays an important role in the reproduction of fish living in natural environments. However, little is known about the influence of the moon on tilapia reproductive activity in intensive fish farming systems. This study aims to evaluate the influence of the lunar cycle on the reproductive performance of tilapias in an intensive outdoor tropical production system in Latin America. Records of two tilapia strains (Nile tilapia [Oreochromis niloticus; n = 75] and Red tilapia [Oreochromis spp.; n = 1335]) reared in concrete tanks in a commercial fish farm were analyzed. Over a 3-year period, 60,136 captures were made in intervals of 12 to 14 days and 6,600 females were manually spawned. The number of females spawned and the volume of eggs collected from each tank (n = 9) were recorded. Data was analyzed by the general linear model and means were compared by least squares means method. A very slight or no variation was observed when the lunar cycle was split into two halves (crescent and waning). The proportions of females spawned and the volume of eggs per spawned female and per female in the tank varied considerably across the eight periods of the lunar cycle, with greater values in the waning than in the crescent phase. A significantly greater proportion of tilapia spawned and yielded more eggs around the full moon than around the new moon and remaining days of the lunar cycle. The moon cycle affected the reproductive activity of tilapia, which were more reproductively active around the full moon and most of the waning phase.

Roles of melatonin in the teleost ovary: A review of the current status

Melatonin, the neurohormone mainly synthesized in and secreted from the pineal gland of vertebrates following a circadian rhythm, is an important factor regulating various physiological processes, including reproduction. Recent data indicate that melatonin is also synthesized in the ovary and that it acts directly at the level of the ovary to modulate ovarian physiology. In some teleosts, melatonin is reported to affect ovarian steroidogenesis. The direct action of melatonin on the ovary could be a possible factor promoting oocyte maturation in teleosts. A role for melatonin in follicle rupture during ovulation in the teleost medaka has recently emerged. In addition, melatonin is suggested to affect oocyte maturation by its antioxidant activity. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these direct effects of melatonin are largely unknown.

Lunar Cycle Influences Reproductive Performance of Crossbred Brahman Cows Under Tropical Conditions

Evidence has accumulated over the years indicating that the moon influences some aspects of the reproductive activity in animals and humans. However, little is known about the influence of the lunar cycle on the reproductive performance of cows under tropical conditions, where the environment strongly affects reproduction. This retrospective study was conducted with the aim of assessing the influence of the lunar cycle on some reproductive traits of tropical crossbred cows managed in a pasture-based system. Data from 5869 reproductive records from two commercial farms localized in the Maracaibo Lake Basin of Zulia State, Venezuela, were analyzed. Variables studied were first service conception rate, calving frequency, first postpartum estrous frequency, and pregnancy frequency. In addition to the lunar cycle, the effects of farm, season, and predominant breed were also considered. Data were analyzed using logistic regression and general linear model from SAS. First service conception was affected by lunar phases and predominant breed, but not by farm or season. For frequencies of calving, first postpartum estrus, and pregnancy, there was no main effect of farm, season, and predominant breed, whereas the effect of lunar phases was highly significant. First service conception was significantly greater in waning than in crescent phase of the lunar cycle. Frequencies of calving, first estrus, and pregnancy were highly correlated and showed greater figures around full moon and new moon. In conclusion, lunar cycle influenced first service conception, attaining greater values in the waning phase of the moon cycle. Frequencies of calving, first postpartum estrus, and pregnancy in crossbred cows showed a clear bimodal rhythm, whose greatest values coincided with new moon and full moon.

Moonlight is a key entrainer of lunar clock in the brain of the tropical grouper with full moon preference

Background

Many animals in coral reefs exhibit lunar cycles in their reproduction, showing synchronous gametogenesis and spawning at a particular moon phase. How these lunar reproductive cycles are endogenously regulated remains unknown, although changes in moonlight between the new moon and full moon are likely involved in this rhythmic event.

Results

This study evaluated the possible role of cryptochrome (cry1, cry2, cry3) in phase shifting and setting in the honeycomb grouper Epinephelus merra, which is a typical lunar spawner with full moon preference. qPCR analysis revealed that when fish were reared under alternating light-dark conditions, the transcript levels of cry1 and cry2, but not of cry3, in the diencephalon and pituitary gland showed daily variations. Weekly collection at midnight showed increases in the transcript levels of cry1 and cry2 in the diencephalon, but not the pituitary gland, from the first quarter moon through the last quarter moon. In comparison to the new moon, these transcript levels were significantly lower at all other sampling times. The artificial full moon conditions for 1 month resulted in increased cry transcript levels in both tissues at 2 (cry1) or 2 and 4 (cry2) weeks after the initiation of full moon conditions.

Conclusions

These results indicate the importance of transient changes in “brightness at night” in the response to moonlight for the phase shift and of “darkness at night” during the new moon for the phase set to the determined moon phase. We concluded that the moon phase-dependent oscillation of clock genes plays a role in lunar cycle-dependent behaviors in fish.

Seasonal changes in three indices of gonadal maturation in male golden rabbitfish (Siganus guttatus): implications for artificial propagation

Monthly changes of hepatosomatic index (HSI), gonadosomatic index (GSI), and plasma testosterone (T) levels in the reproductive season of male golden rabbitfish (Siganus guttatus) in captivity were investigated by sampling the liver, testis, and blood. HSI and GSI were estimated as percentage of relative weight of liver and testis to total body weight, respectively. Plasma T levels were measured using enzyme immune assay (EIA). Fragments of the testis were embedded in paraffin, cut to 5 μm thickness, and stained with Harris' hematoxylin and eosin. The results included seasonal changes in HSI, GSI, T, and testicular stages. The plasma T levels were observed high at spermation stage and during February-March and May-June. The values of HSI were monthly fluctuations, but no significant differences between testicular stages were observed. The GSI values continuously exhibited a significant increase from December to April and maintained at high levels until June. GSI continuously increased from stage II (immature testis) to stage V (spawning testis). There was correlation between GSI and testicular stages. Histological sections showed that male golden rabbitfish are multiple spawners and spawning season starts from March to June. These results contribute to further understanding of reproductive biology in golden rabbitfish, which can be implicated for artificial propagation.

The Still Dark Side of the Moon: Molecular Mechanisms of Lunar-Controlled Rhythms and Clocks

Starting with the beginning of the last century, a multitude of scientific studies has documented that the lunar cycle times behaviors and physiology in many organisms. It is plausible that even the first life forms adapted to the different rhythms controlled by the moon. Consistently, many marine species exhibit lunar rhythms, and also the number of documented "lunar-rhythmic" terrestrial species is increasing. Organisms follow diverse lunar geophysical/astronomical rhythms, which differ significantly in terms of period length: from hours (circalunidian and circatidal rhythms) to days (circasemilunar and circalunar cycles). Evidence for internal circatital and circalunar oscillators exists for a range of species based on past behavioral studies, but those species with well-documented behaviorally free-running lunar rhythms are not typically used for molecular studies. Thus, the underlying molecular mechanisms are largely obscure: the dark side of the moon. Here we review findings that start to connect molecular pathways with moon-controlled physiology and behaviors. The present data indicate connections between metabolic/endocrine pathways and moon-controlled rhythms, as well as interactions between circadian and circatidal/circalunar rhythms. Moreover, recent high-throughput analyses provide useful leads toward pathways, as well as molecular markers. However, for each interpretation, it is important to carefully consider the, partly substantially differing, conditions used in each experimental paradigm. In the future, it will be important to use lab experiments to delineate the specific mechanisms of the different solar- and lunar-controlled rhythms, but to also start integrating them together, as life has evolved equally long under rhythms of both sun and moon.

Gonadal response of juvenile protogynous grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus) to long-term recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone administration†

The role of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in the gonadal development of protogynous hermaphroditic grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus) was investigated. Recombinant giant grouper (E. lanceolatus) FSH (rggFSH) was produced in yeast. Its receptor-binding capacity and steroidogenic potency were confirmed in vitro. Weekly injections of rggFSH to juvenile tiger grouper for 8 weeks (100 μg/kg body weight, BW) resulted in significantly larger and more advanced oocytes (cortical alveolar stage vs primary growth stage in control). Sustained treatment with rggFSH (20 to 38 weeks at 200 μg/kg BW) resulted in significant reduction in gonad size, degeneration of oocytes, and proliferation of spermatogonial cells, indicative of female to male sex change. Gene expression analysis showed that, while initiating female to male sex change, the rggFSH significantly suppressed the steroidogenic genes cyp11b, cyp19a1a, and foxl2 which restrained the endogenous production of sex steroid hormones and thus prevented the differentiation of spermatogonial cells. Expression profile of sex markers dmrt1, amh, figla, and bmp15 suggests that the observed sex change was restricted at the initiation stage. Based on these results, we propose that the process of female to male sex change in the protogynous grouper is initiated by FSH, rather than sex steroids, and likely involves steroid-independent pathway. The cortical alveolar stage in oocyte development is the critical point after which FSH-induced sex change is possible in grouper.

Induction of Gonadal Development in Protogynous Grouper with Orally Delivered FSH DNA

The availability of sexually mature fish often dictates the success of its captive breeding. In this study, we induced reproductive development in juvenile protogynous tiger grouper through oral administration of a plasmid (p) containing an engineered follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). An expression construct (pcDNA3.1) was designed to express a single-chain FSH consisting of giant grouper FSH β-subunit and glycoprotein subunit-α (CGα), linked by the carboxy-terminal peptide (CTP) sequence from the human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Single oral delivery of pFSH encapsulated in liposome and chitosan to tiger grouper yielded a significant increase in plasma FSH protein level after 4 days. Weekly pFSH feeding of juvenile tiger groupers for 8 weeks stimulated ovarian development as indicated by a significant increase in oocyte diameter and progression of oocytes to cortical alveolar stage. As the pFSH treatment progressed from 20 to 38 weeks, female to male sex change was initiated, characterized by oocyte regression, proliferation of spermatogonial cells, and occurrence of spermatogenic cysts. It was also associated with significantly lower mRNA expression of steroidogenic genes (cyp11b, cyp19a1a, and foxl2) and basal plasma levels of sex steroid hormones 17β-estradiol (E₂), testosterone (T), and 11-ketotestosterone (11KT). Results suggest that pFSH stimulates ovarian development up to cortical alveolar stage and then initiates sex change in tiger grouper. These findings significantly contribute to our knowledge on the role of FSH in the development of protogynous hermaphroditic fish. This study is the first to demonstrate induction of reproductive development in fish through oral delivery of plasmid gonadotropin.

Involvement of melatonin in transducing moon-related signals into the reproductive network of the female honeycomb grouper Epinephelus merra

Most groupers (genus Epinephelus) inhabiting tropical and subtropical waters exhibit lunar-related reproductive cycles. Their gametes develop synchronously toward and are released around the species-selected moon phase. Periodical changes in cues from the moon are likely used as zeitgeber, and the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis may be activated after cues are perceived by the sensory organ and transduced as internal signals. The objective of this study was to examine weekly changes in mRNA expression profiles of gonadotropin-releasing hormones (gnrh1 and gnrh2) and the β-subunit of gonadotropins (fshβ and lhβ) during the spawning season (May to June) of the female honeycomb grouper Epinephelus merra, which spawns around the full moon period. When mature females were collected based on the lunar cycle, the gonadosomatic index peaked around the full moon. Ovarian histology revealed that oocytes laden with yolk developed toward the full moon and, subsequently, ovulatory follicles appeared around the last quarter moon, confirming lunar-related spawning with a full moon preference. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses revealed high abundances of fshβ and lhβ toward the first quarter moon, whereas concentrations of gnrh1 and gnrh2 increased around the last quarter moon and the first quarter moon, respectively, suggesting that transcription levels of these hormones fluctuate with the lunar cycle. The measurement of melatonin in the eye around the new moon and the full moon revealed that the ocular melatonin content was higher around the new moon than around the full moon, suggesting that the honeycomb grouper can perceive changes in moonlight. In addition, implantation of an osmotic pump containing melatonin into the body cavity of E. merra reduced the transcription levels of gonadotropins, suggesting that melatonin negatively affects hormonal synthesis at the HPG axis. We concluded that melatonin plays an essential role in transducing periodical changes in moonlight and that decreases in melatonin levels from the new moon to the full moon activate the HPG axis for entrainment of gonadal development and spawning.

Molecular cloning of kisspeptin receptor genes (gpr54-1 and gpr54-2) and their expression profiles in the brain of a tropical damselfish during different gonadal stages

The kisspeptin receptor (GPR54) mediates neuroendocrine control of kisspeptin in the brain and acts as a gateway for a pulsatile release of hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone. This study aimed to clone two GPR54 genes (gpr54-1 and gpr54-2) from the brain of the sapphire devil Chrysiptera cyanea, a tropical damselfish, and to study their involvement in reproduction. The partial sequences of the sapphire devil gpr54-1 cDNA (1059bp) and gpr54-2 cDNA (1098bp) each had an open reading frame encoding a protein of 353 and 366 amino acids, respectively, both of which had structural features of a G-protein-coupled receptor. The expression of gpr54-1 mRNA was observed in the diencephalon and telencephalon, and gpr54-2 mRNA was found in the optic tectum of sapphire devil. When gpr54-1 and gpr54-2 mRNA levels were examined in the brain of sapphire devil by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), they were found to increase during late vitellogenesis and post-spawning. Treatment of fish with estradiol-17β (Ε2) resulted in an increase in gpr54-1 and gpr54-2 expression in the brain of sapphire devil. Thus, kisspeptin receptors likely mediate the activity of kisspeptin in the brain and are involved in controlling reproductive events in a tropical damselfish.

Effects of Moonlight Exposure on Plasma Melatonin Rhythms in the Seagrass Rabbitfish, Siganus Canaliculatus

Influences of light-dark (LD) cycle and moonlight exposure on plasma melatonin rhythms in the seagrass rabbitfish, Siganus canaliculatus, a lunar synchronized spawner, were determined by time-resolved fluoroimmunoassay (TR-FIA). When the fish were exposed to a natural LD (12:12) cycle, plasma melatonin levels exhibited a clear daily rhythm, with higher levels at midnight and lower levels during the day. These rhythms were not evident under either constant light (LL) or constant dark (DD) conditions. Plasma melatonin levels under LL condition were low and high under DD condition. These results indicate that plasma melatonin rhythms are driven by LD cycle in this species. When the fish were exposed to the 4 lunar phases, plasma melatonin levels around the new moon were significantly higher than during the first quarter moon and the full moon. Exposure to experimentalnewmoonand full moonconditions caused significant increases and decreases of plasma melatonin levels, respectively. The synchronous rhythmicity of melatonin levels in the plasma support the hypothesis that the seagrass rabbitfish perceives moonlight intensity and responds with secretion of melatonin into the bloodstream.

Effects of neurotoxin 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) treatment on ovarian development of the sapphire devil, Chrysiptera cyanea

In the neuroendocrine system controlling fish reproduction, dopamine (DA) acts as a gonadotropin inhibitory factor and plays a role in regulating gonadal development of certain species. The present study examined the effects of chemical destruction of dopaminergic neurons in the brain on DA production and ovarian development in the sapphire devil Chrysiptera cyanea, a reef-associated damselfish. The avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex method using an antibody against tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), a critical enzyme in the DA synthesis pathway, identified a population of dopaminergic neurons with somata in the anteroventral preoptic nucleus of the diencephalon and fibers terminating in the proximal pars distalis of the pituitary. Maintaining fish in seawater containing 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) at 0.02 and 0.2 µg/mL for 2 days resulted in decreases in DA, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC; DA metabolite), and DA metabolic rate in the whole brain. The number of TH-positive neurons in the diencephalon decreased after 0.02 µg/mL MPTP treatment for 2 days. These results suggest that MPTP treatment destroys TH-positive neurons in the diencephalon, thereby decreasing the synthesis and release of DA from the brain. This treatment rescued ovarian development in fish with artificially retracted ovaries during the spawning season. The gonadosomatic index of MPTP-treated fish 5 and 7 days after treatment was significantly higher than that of control fish. Oocytes in the vitellogenic stages were observed in the ovaries of MPTP-treated fish, but not in control fish. These results suggest that DA in the brain drives ovarian development in the sapphire devil.

Hypothalamic expression and moonlight-independent changes of Cry3 and Per4 implicate their roles in lunar clock oscillators of the lunar-responsive Goldlined spinefoot

Lunar cycle-associated physiology has been found in a wide variety of organisms. Studies suggest the presence of a circalunar clock in some animals, but the location of the lunar clock is unclear. We previously found lunar-associated expression of transcripts for Cryptochrome3 gene (SgCry3) in the brain of a lunar phase-responsive fish, the Goldlined spinefoot (Siganus guttatus). Then we proposed a photoperiodic model for the lunar phase response, in which SgCry3 might function as a phase-specific light response gene and/or an oscillatory factor in unidentified circalunar clock. In this study, we have developed an anti-SgCRY3 antibody to identify SgCRY3-immunoreactive cells in the brain. We found immunoreactions in the subependymal cells located in the mediobasal region of the diencephalon, a crucial site for photoperiodic seasonal responses in birds. For further assessment of the lunar-responding mechanism and the circalunar clock, we investigated mRNA levels of Cry3 as well as those of the other clock(-related) genes, Period (Per2 and Per4), in S. guttatus reared under nocturnal moonlight interruption or natural conditions. Not only SgCry3 but SgPer4 mRNA levels showed lunar phase-dependent variations in the diencephalon without depending on light condition during the night. These results suggest that the expressions of SgCry3 and SgPer4 are not directly regulated by moonlight stimulation but endogenously mediated in the brain, and implicate that circadian clock(-related) genes may be involved in the circalunar clock locating within the mediobasal region of the diencephalon.

Impacts of moonlight on fish reproduction

The waxing and waning cycle of the moon is repeated at approximately 1-month intervals, and concomitant changes occur in the levels of moonlight and cueing signals detected by organisms on the earth. In the goldlined spinefoot Siganus guttatus, a spawner lunar-synchronized around the first quarter moon, periodic changes in moonlight are used to cue gonadal development and gamete release. Rearing of mature fish under artificial constant full moon and new moon conditions during the spawning season leads to disruption or delay of synchronous spawning around the predicted moon phase. Melatonin, an endogenous transducer of the environmental light/dark cycle, increases in the blood and in the pineal gland around the new moon period and decreases around the full moon period. In synchrony with melatonin fluctuation, melatonin receptor(s) mRNA abundance is higher during the new moon period than during the full moon. The melatonin/melatonin receptor system is likely affected by moonlight. Measurements of the expression patterns of clock genes in neural tissues demonstrate that Cryptochrome (Cry1 and Cry3) and Period (Per2) fluctuate with lunar periodicity, the former peaking in the medial part of the brain around the first quarter moon period, and the latter peaking in the pineal gland around the full moon. Some clock genes may respond to periodic changes in moon phase and appear to be involved in the generation of lunar-related rhythmicity in lunar spawners. Thus, some fish use moonlight-related periodicities as reliable information for synchronizing the timing of reproductive events.

Cloning and expression of melatonin receptors in the mudskipper Boleophthalmus pectinirostris: their role in synchronizing its semilunar spawning rhythm

The mudskipper Boleophthalmus pectinirostris, a burrow-dwelling fish inhabiting intertidal mudflats, spawns only once during the spawning season around either the first or last lunar quarters. To understand the molecular mechanisms regulating this semilunar spawning rhythm, we cloned all melatonin receptor subtypes (mtnr1a1.4, mtnr1a1.7, mtnr1b, and mtnr1c). Expression of three melatonin receptor subtypes (except mtnr1c) was found in the ovaries. In contrast, the expression of all receptor subtypes was found in the diencephalon and the pituitary. In the fully-grown follicles, only mtnr1a1.7 mRNA was detected in both the isolated follicle layers and denuded oocytes. Interestingly, the transcript levels of both mtnr1a1.4 in the diencephalon and mtnr1a1.7 in the ovary displayed two cycles within one lunar month, and peaked around the first and last lunar quarters. We used 17α,20β-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (DHP), a maturation-inducing hormone, as a biomarker to examine the involvement of melatonin receptors in the control of the spawning cycle. Melatonin significantly increased the plasma DHP level 1h post intraperitoneal injection. Melatonin also directly stimulated ovarian fragments in vitro to produce a significantly higher amount of DHP. Taken together, these results provided the first evidence that melatonin receptors were involved in the synchronization of the semilunar spawning rhythm in the female mudskipper by acting through the HPG axis and/or directly on ovarian tissues to stimulate the production of DHP.

Influence of moonlight on mRNA expression patterns of melatonin receptor subtypes in the pineal organ of a tropical fish

The goldlined spinefoot, Siganus guttatus, is a lunar-synchronized spawner, which repeatedly releases gametes around the first quarter moon during the reproductive season. A previous study reported that manipulating moonlight brightness at night disrupted synchronized spawning, suggesting involvement of this natural light source in lunar synchronization. The present study examined whether the mRNA expression pattern of melatonin receptor subtypes MT1 and Mel1c in the pineal organ of the goldlined spinefoot is related to moonlight. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that the abundance of MT1 and Mel1c mRNA at midnight increased during the new moon phase and decreased during the full moon phase. Exposing fish to moonlight intensity during the full moon period resulted in a decrease in Mel1c mRNA abundance within 1h. Fluctuations in the melatonin receptor genes according to changes in the moon phase agreed with those of melatonin levels in the blood. These results indicate that periodic changes in cues from the moon influence melatonin receptor mRNA expression levels. The melatonin-melatonin receptor system may play a role in predicting the moon phase through changes in night brightness.

Moonlight affects mRNA abundance of arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase in the retina of a lunar-synchronized spawner, the goldlined spinefoot

Melatonin synthesis in the pineal gland and retina shows a rhythmic fashion with high levels at night and is controlled by a rate-limiting enzyme, arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AANAT). A previous study revealed that moonlight suppresses the plasma melatonin levels of the goldlined spinefoot (Siganus guttatus), which exhibits a lunar cycle in its reproductive activity and repeats gonadal development toward and spawning around the first quarter moon. Whether the retina of this species responds to moonlight is unknown. To clarify the photoperceptive ability of this species, we aimed to clone the full-length cDNA of Aanat1 (sgAanat1) from the retina and examine its transcriptional pattern under several daylight and moonlight regimes. The full-length sgAanat1 cDNA (1,038 bp) contained a reading frame encoding a protein of 225 amino acids, which was highly homologous to AANAT1 of other teleosts. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis revealed that among the tissues tested, sgAanat1 fragments were expressed exclusively in the retina. Real-time quantitative PCR analysis revealed that sgAanat1 fluctuated with high abundance at night under light-dark cycle and at subjective night under constant darkness, but not under constant light. These results suggest that sgAanat1 is regulated by both the external light signal and internal clock system. The abundance of sgAanat1 in the retina was higher at the culmination time around new moon than full moon phase. Additionally, exposing fish to brightness around the full moon period suppressed sgAanat1 mRNA abundance. Thus, moonlight is perceived by fish and has an impact on melatonin fluctuation in the retina.

Effects of hydrostatic pressure on monoaminergic activity in the brain of a tropical wrasse, Halicoeres trimaculatus: possible implication for controlling tidal-related reproductive activity

Most wrasse species in tropical waters exhibit daily spawning synchrony with a preference for high tide. Fish perceive tidal rhythm cues through sensory organs and activate the brain-pituitary-gonadal endocrine axis for synchronous gonadal maturation, although how the tidal-related spawning cycle is controlled endogenously is not known. The purpose of this study was to examine whether hydrostatic pressure has an impact on brain monoamine levels and reproductive activities in the threespot wrasse Halichoeres trimaculatus. The contents of dopamine (DA), 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), serotonin (5-HT), and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) in the brain were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography and an electrochemical detection system. Exposing the fish to hydrostatic pressure occurring at a 3-m depth (~30 kPa) resulted in an increase in 5-HIAA/5-HT over 3h and a decrease in DOPAC/DA over 6h. No changes in gonadosomatic index or oocyte diameter were observed between the groups when female fish were reared at 0-m and 3-m depth for 3h. Hydrostatic pressure did not alter pituitary mRNA abundance of follicle stimulating hormone-β or luteinizing hormone-β. However, in vitro culture of ovaries from pressurized fish in the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin resulted in an increase in 17α,20β-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one in the medium. These results suggest that hydrostatic pressure activates oocyte maturation through brain monoaminergic activity in this tropical wrasse species.

Lunar phase-dependent expression of cryptochrome and a photoperiodic mechanism for lunar phase-recognition in a reef fish, goldlined spinefoot

Lunar cycle-associated physiology has been found in a wide variety of organisms. Recent study has revealed that mRNA levels of Cryptochrome (Cry), one of the circadian clock genes, were significantly higher on a full moon night than on a new moon night in coral, implying the involvement of a photoreception system in the lunar-synchronized spawning. To better establish the generalities surrounding such a mechanism and explore the underlying molecular mechanism, we focused on the relationship between lunar phase, Cry gene expression, and the spawning behavior in a lunar-synchronized spawner, the goldlined spinefoot (Siganus guttatus), and we identified two kinds of Cry genes in this animal. Their mRNA levels showed lunar cycle-dependent expression in the medial part of the brain (mesencephalon and diencephalon) peaking at the first quarter moon. Since this lunar phase coincided with the reproductive phase of the goldlined spinefoot, Cry gene expression was considered a state variable in the lunar phase recognition system. Based on the expression profiles of SgCrys together with the moonlight's pattern of timing and duration during its nightly lunar cycle, we have further speculated on a model of lunar phase recognition for reproductive control in the goldlined spinefoot, which integrates both moonlight and circadian signals in a manner similar to photoperiodic response.

Gh is produced by the testis of Japanese eel and stimulates proliferation of spermatogonia

Gh plays important roles in development, somatic growth and gametogenesis in vertebrates. To determine the physiological role of Gh in reproduction in male teleosts, the expression of genes encoding Gh and the two Gh receptors (Ghrs) during spermatogenesis, and the action of Ghin vitrowas examined using the Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica).gh,ghr1andghr2mRNA transcripts were detected in all spermatogenic stages.In situhybridization showed the presence ofghr1andghr2mRNA in the germ cells. Immunohistochemistry using an antiserum against eel Gh indicated that Gh protein was localized to Sertoli cells surrounding the germ cells in early spermatogenesis. Recombinant eel Gh induced spermatogonial proliferation in a testis organ culture system, an effect that was independent from the production of steroid hormones or Igf1. This study identifies a role for eel Gh in the regulation of early spermatogenesis, particularly in the mitotic phase of spermatogenesis, that is not mediated by either steroid hormones or Igf1 production.

Hormonal components of altered developmental pathways in the annual killifish, Austrofundulus limnaeus

The annual killifish, Austrofundulus limnaeus, typically enters embryonic diapause at two distinct points of development, termed diapause II and III. This study explores the role of maternal and embryonic steroid hormones, including 17-β-estradiol (E2), androstenedione (A4) and testosterone (T), in regulating the developmental decision to enter or escape diapause II. Steroid hormone levels were measured in tissues isolated from adult female killifish during the normal lifespan of this species and in individuals of the same age that were producing either high or low proportions of escape embryos. Levels of steroid hormones were also measured during early development and in fertilized eggs that were predicted to be on either an escape or diapausing developmental trajectory. Decreases in maternal E2 levels associated with age are correlated with decreasing escape embryo production. Maternal production of escape embryos is correlated with increased ratios of E2 to T in adult ovary tissue. Interestingly, neither hormone is significantly different in fish producing embryos on different developmental pathways when examined independently. Levels of steroid hormones in fertilized eggs are not correlated with entry or escape from diapause II, though levels of A4 tend to be higher in escape embryos. Escape embryos exhibit faster hormone metabolism and earlier hormone synthesis than embryos that will enter diapause II. Incubation of embryos in exogenous E2 is associated with a 7-fold increase in escape embryo production, and significantly elevated A4 levels. These data suggest that steroid hormones may be critical factors involved in determining developmental pathways in embryos of A. limnaeus.

Another place, another timer: Marine species and the rhythms of life

The marine ecosystem is governed by a multitude of environmental cycles, all of which are linked to the periodical recurrence of the sun or the moon. In accordance with these cycles, marine species exhibit a variety of biological rhythms, ranging from circadian and circatidal rhythms to circalunar and seasonal rhythms. However, our current molecular understanding of biological rhythms and clocks is largely restricted to solar-controlled circadian and seasonal rhythms in land model species. Here, we discuss the first molecular data emerging for circalunar and circatidal rhythms and present selected species suitable for further molecular analyses. We argue that a re-focus on marine species will be crucial to understand the principles, interactions and evolution of rhythms that govern a broad range of eukaryotes, including ourselves.

Preliminary results on the reproduction of a deep-sea snailfish Careproctus rhodomelas around the active hydrothermal vent on the Hatoma Knoll, Okinawa, Japan

Deep-sea snailfish Careproctus rhodomelas were collected from an active hydrothermal vent using a remotely operated vehicle (R.O.V. Hyper-dolphin) and a pressurized device (Deep-Aquarium). Careproctus rhodomelas exhibited a cystovarian-type ovary containing a small number of developing oocytes at different stages, suggesting that the fish is a batch-spawner that spawns large eggs (c. 6·0 mm) several times within its life span. In vitro culture of the oocytes in the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin showed that oestradiol-17β production fluctuated with oocyte development, suggesting that the oocytes were at the vitellogenic stage.

Sexually dimorphic expression of gonadotropin subunits in the pituitary of protogynous honeycomb grouper (Epinephelus merra): evidence that follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) induces gonadal sex change

Recent studies have suggested that the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is involved in gonadal sex change in sex-changing teleosts. However, its underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. In this study, we focused on the distinct roles of two gonadotropins (GTHs), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), in the protogynous hermaphrodite teleost, honeycomb grouper (Epinephelus merra). First, we investigated the expression pattern of mRNAs for GTH subunits (cga, fshb, and lhb) in the pituitaries from fish at the different sexual phases. Real-time RT-PCR analyses showed that fhsb mRNA levels in the female pituitary were low. However, fshb transcripts increased dramatically in association with testis development. In contrast, levels of cga and lhb mRNAs did not significantly vary during sex change. In addition, immunohistochemical observations of Fshb- and Lhb-producing cells in the pituitary, through the use of specific antibodies for detections of teleost GTH subunits, were consistent with sexually dimorphic expression of Fshb. In order to identify the role of GTH in gonad of honeycomb grouper, we treated females with bovine FSH (50 or 500 ng/fish) or LH (500 ng/fish) in vivo. After 3 wk, FSH treatments induced female-to-male sex change and up-regulated endogenous androgen levels and fshb transcripts, whereas LH treatment had no effect on sex change. These results suggest that FSH may trigger the female-to-male sex change in honeycomb grouper.

Hyperosmotic shock adaptation by cortisol involves upregulation of branchial osmotic stress transcription factor 1 gene expression in Mozambique Tilapia

The Mozambique tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus) is a euryhaline species that does not survive direct seawater exposure. Cortisol is involved in re-establishing electrolyte homeostasis in seawater and is thought to play a role in allowing tilapia to cope with abrupt seawater exposure, but the mechanism(s) are far from clear. Recently, osmotic stress transcription factor 1 (OSTF1) was identified as a key signaling molecule involved in hyperosmotic stress adaptation in tilapia. Consequently, we tested the hypothesis that upregulation of OSTF1 expression by cortisol is a key response for hyperosmotic stress adaptation in tilapia. Fish were exposed to different salinities over a 24h period, while a major electrolyte disturbance and mortality was observed only with full-strength seawater exposure. Therefore, we administered cocoa butter implants of cortisol (50mg/kg) intraperitoneally to tilapia maintained in fresh water and after three days exposed these fish to full-strength seawater. There was 50% mortality in the control fish upon seawater exposure, but this was abolished by cortisol treatment. Abrupt seawater exposure did not affect plasma cortisol levels, while, as expected, exogenous administration of this steroid elevated plasma cortisol levels both in fresh water and seawater. Cortisol treatment significantly induced OSTF1 gene expression in fresh water tilapia, and also enhanced further the seawater-induced OSTF1 mRNA abundance. Plasma osmolality decreased, while gill Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity was suppressed in the cortisol group in seawater compared to the sham group. This corresponded with a significant reduction in gill ionocyte size and Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity and protein expression after seawater exposure. Cortisol did not modify liver metabolism, but significantly suppressed gill metabolic capacity in seawater. Overall, cortisol adapts tilapia to a hyperosmotic shock associated with abrupt seawater exposure. This involves upregulation of OSTF1 gene expression and a concomitant suppression of branchial metabolism in tilapia.

External and internal controls of lunar-related reproductive rhythms in fishes

Reproductive activities of many fish species are, to some extent, entrained to cues from the moon. During the spawning season, synchronous spawning is repeated at intervals of c. 1 month (lunar spawning cycle) and 2 weeks (semi-lunar spawning cycle) or daily according to tidal changes (tidal spawning cycle). In species showing lunar-related spawning cycles, oocytes in the ovary develop towards and mature around a specific moon phase for lunar spawners, around spring tides for semi-lunar spawners and at daytime high tides for tidal spawners. The production of sex steroid hormones also changes in accordance with synchronous oocyte development. Since the production of the steroid hormones with lunar-related reproductive periodicity is regulated by gonadotropins, it is considered that the higher parts of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad axis play important roles in the perception and regulation of lunar-related periodicity. It is likely that fishes perceive cues from the moon by sensory organs; however, it is still unknown how lunar cues are transduced as an endogenous rhythm exerting lunar-related spawning rhythmicity. Recent research has revealed that melatonin fluctuated according to the brightness at night, magnetic fields and the tidal cycle. In addition, cyclic changes in hydrostatic pressure had an effect on monoamine contents in the brain. These factors may be indirectly related to the exertion of lunar-related periodicity. Molecular approaches have revealed that mRNA expressions of light-sensitive clock genes change with moonlight, suggesting that brightness at night plays a role in phase-shifting or resetting of biological clocks. Some species may have evolved biological clocks in relation to lunar cycles, although it is still not known how lunar periodicities are endogenously regulated in fishes. This review demonstrates that lunar-related periodicity is utilized and incorporated by ecological and physiological mechanisms governing the reproductive success of fishes.

Individual, temporal, and population-level variations in circulating 11-ketotestosterone and 17beta-estradiol concentrations in the oyster toadfish Opsanus tau

Sex steroid hormones are important for reproduction in all vertebrates, but few studies examine inter-individual, temporal, and population-level variations, as well as environmental influences on circulating steroid levels within the same species. In this study we analyzed plasma 11-ketotoestosterone (11-KT) and 17beta-estradiol (E(2)) levels in the oyster toadfish to test for 1) individual and temporal variations by serially sampling the same individuals during the reproductive and post-reproductive period, 2) variations in steroid levels among toadfish obtained from different sources or maintained under different holding conditions, and 3) correlations with environmental parameters. Results from serial sampling showed marked inter-individual variations in male 11-KT levels in two separate groups of toadfish, but no temporal differences from June to September. Females also showed inter-individual variations in E(2) concentrations, but most had elevated levels late in the reproductive season coincident with oocyte growth prior to winter quiescence. E(2) concentration, but not 11-KT, was positively correlated with water temperature, and negatively correlated with daylength and lunar phase. Maricultured toadfish held under constant conditions had elevated levels of E(2) and 11-KT that should be considered when using these fish for experimentation. This study provides important comparative information on the relationship between individual variations in steroid levels, and how they relate to physiological and environmental correlates in a model marine teleost.

Moonlight affects nocturnal Period2 transcript levels in the pineal gland of the reef fish Siganus guttatus

The golden rabbitfish Siganus guttatus is a reef fish with a restricted lunar-synchronized spawning cycle. It is not known how the fish recognizes cues from the moon and exerts moon-related activities. In order to evaluate the perception and utilization of moonlight by the fish, the present study aimed to clone and characterize Period2 (Per2), a light-inducible clock gene in lower vertebrates, and to examine daily variations in rabbitfish Per2 (rfPer2) expression as well as the effect of light and moonlight on its expression in the pineal gland. The partially-cloned rfPer2 cDNA (2933 bp) was highly homologous (72%) to zebrafish Per2. The rfPer2 levels increased at ZT6 and decreased at ZT18 in the whole brain and several peripheral organs. The rfPer2 expression in the pineal gland exhibited a daily variation with an increase during daytime. Exposing the fish to light during nighttime resulted in a rapid increase of its expression in the pineal gland, while the level was decreased by intercepting light during daytime. Two hours after exposing the fish to moonlight at the full moon period, the rfPer2 expression was upregulated. These results suggest that rfPer2 is a light-inducible clock gene and that its expression is affected not only by daylight but also by moonlight. Since the rfPer2 expression level during the full moon period was higher than that during the new moon period, the monthly variation in the rfPer2 expression is likely to occur with the change in amplitude between the full and new moon periods.

Variation with semilunar periodicity of plasma steroid hormone production in the mudskipper Boleophthalmus pectinirostris

Variation in the production of the plasma steroid hormones E(2), 17alpha-OHP and T in females and T and 11-KT in males, was investigated in the mudskipper Boleophthalmus pectinirostris during the spawning season. Females with oocytes at the vitellogenic stage (GSI 5.97-6.86%) and mature males with GSI of 0.255-0.288% were collected at intervals of 3-4 days within the two complete semilunar cycles from May 31 to June 30, 2006. The results showed that variations in the levels of plasma steroid hormones were synchronized obviously with semilunar periodicity in both females and males. Each steroid hormone level exhibited two cycles, each cycle with a peak. In females, the first peaks in plasma E(2), 17alpha-OHP and T levels were observed 3 days after the first lunar quarter, and the second ones, 4 days after the last lunar quarter. In males, the first peaks of plasma T and 11-KT levels occurred 3 days after the first lunar quarter, and the second ones, at the last lunar quarter. The fact that, in the present study, changes in the levels of plasma steroid hormones were synchronized with semilunar periodicity, although the fish were at the same stages of gonadal development, suggests that variation of plasma steroid hormones is basically regulated by biological rhythms (Zeitgebers), and that tidal movement (with its semilunar periodicity) is the major environmental factor stimulating steroid hormone production in B. pectinirostris.

Tissue-specific suppression of estrogen, androgen and glucocorticoid receptor gene expression in feral vitellogenic male Mozambique tilapia

While vitellogenesis in male fish is commonly used as a biomarker of xenoestrogen exposure, very little is known about the impacts associated with this unusual protein synthesis in feral populations. To this end, a recent study showed elevated circulating vitellogenin (VTG) levels in male Mozambique tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus) collected from the Aja but not Tengan Rivers in Okinawa, Japan. Here we investigated whether this unusual protein synthesis in male fish from the Aja River affect transcript abundance of estrogen (ER), androgen (AR) and glucocorticoid (GR) receptors in the liver, brain and testis. The detection of plasma VTG levels ( approximately 100 microg ml(-1)) in male tilapia confirmed xenoestrogenic exposure in the Aja, but not the Tengan River. This protein induction was not associated with any changes in the reproductive capacity as assessed by sperm mobility and testis histology in the Aja fish. Plasma levels of estradiol-17beta, 11-ketotestosterone and cortisol were not significantly different between fish from the two rivers. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed a significant reduction in transcript levels of ERalpha and ERbeta, GR and ARalpha but not ARbeta, in the livers of tilapia from the Aja compared with the Tengan River. There were no significant changes in any of the steroid receptor transcript levels in either the brain or testis between the two rivers. Overall, our results imply that xenoestrogen exposure and VTG synthesis may lead to disruption of liver responsiveness to sex steroids and glucocorticoid stimulation in feral male fish.

Molecular cloning and daily variations of the Period gene in a reef fish Siganus guttatus

As the first step in understanding the molecular oscillation of the circa rhythms in the golden rabbitfish Siganus guttatus--a reef fish with a definite lunar-related rhythmicity--we cloned and sequenced a Period gene (rfPer). The rfPer gene contained an open reading frame that encodes a protein consisting of 1,452 amino acids; this protein is highly homologous to PER proteins of vertebrates including zebrafish. Phylogenetic analyses indicated that the rfPER protein is related to the zebrafish PER1 and PER4. The expression of rfPer mRNA in the whole brain, retina, and liver under light/dark (LD) conditions increased at 06:00 h and decreased at 18:00 h, suggesting that its robust circadian rhythm occurs in neural and peripheral tissues. When daily variation in the expression in rfPer mRNA in the whole brain and cultured pineal gland were examined under LD conditions, similar expression patterns of the gene were observed with an increase around dawn. Under constant light condition, the increased expression of rfPer mRNA in the whole brain disappeared around dawn. The present results demonstrate that rfPer is related to zPer4 and possibly zPer1. The present study is the first report on the Period gene from a marine fish.

A direct influence of moonlight intensity on changes in melatonin production by cultured pineal glands of the golden rabbitfish, Siganus guttatus

Rabbitfish are a restricted lunar-synchronized spawner that spawns around a species-specific lunar phase. It is not known how the fish perceive changes in cues from the moon. One possible explanation is that rabbitfish utilize changes in moonlight intensity to establish synchrony. The purpose of the present study was to examine whether or not the pineal gland of the golden rabbitfish can directly perceive changes in moonlight intensity. Isolated pineal glands were statically cultured under natural or artificial light conditions and melatonin secreted into the culture medium was measured using a time-resolved fluoroimmunoassay. Under an artificial light/dark cycle, melatonin secretion significantly increased during the dark phase. Under continuous light conditions, melatonin secretion was suppressed, while culture under continuous dark conditions seemed to duplicate melatonin secretion corresponding to the light/dark cycle in which the fish were acclimated. When cultured pineal glands were kept under natural light conditions on the dates of the full and the new moon, small amounts of melatonin were secreted at night. Moreover, exposure of cultured pineal glands to artificial and natural light conditions resulted in a significant decrease of melatonin secretion within 2 hr. These results suggest that the isolated pineal gland of golden rabbitfish responds to environmental light cycles and that 'brightness' of the night moon has an influence on melatonin secretion from the isolated pineal gland.

In vitro effect of vitellogenin on steroid production by ovarian follicles of greenback flounder Rhombosolea tapirina

Ovarian follicles from vitellogenic greenback flounder (Rhombosolea tapirina) were incubated in L15 medium alone, or containing human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), dibutyryl cyclic AMP (dbcAMP) or the steroid precursors testosterone (T), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17P) and androstenedione (A) in the presence of vitellogenin (Vtg) at 0.1-5.0mg mL(-)(1). Medium concentrations of 17beta-estradiol (E(2)) and T were measured by radioimmunoassay. HCG generally stimulated follicular E(2) but not T production, whereas 17P, A and T stimulated production of E(2), T, and E(2) respectively. Treatment of follicles with dbcAMP inhibited follicular E(2) production, but increased follicular T production at high doses. The effect of low concentrations of Vtg on follicular steroid production was variable; however, higher doses of Vtg significantly suppressed basal, hCG-, dbcAMP- and steroid precursor-stimulated follicular E(2) and T production. The results of this study show that high concentrations of Vtg may suppress follicular steroid production by interfering in the steroidogenic pathway. This suggests that Vtg may regulate its own production by limiting the ovarian production of E(2).

Induction of Female-to–male Sex Change in the Honeycomb Grouper (Epinephelus merra) by 11-ketotestosterone Treatments

The honeycomb grouper, Epinephelus merra, is a protogynous hermaphrodite fish. Sex steroid hormones play key roles in sex change of this species. A significant drop in endogenous estradiol-17beta (E2) levels alone triggers female-to-male sex change, and the subsequent elevation of 11-ketotestosterone (11KT) levels correlates with the progression of spermatogenesis. To elucidate the role of an androgen in sex change, we attempted to induce female-to-male sex change by exogenous 11KT treatments. The 75-day 11KT treatment caused 100% masculinization of pre-spawning females. Ovaries of the control (vehicle-treated) fish had oocytes at various stages of oogenesis, while the gonads of the 11KT-treated fish had transformed into testes; these contained spermatogenic germ cells at various stages, including an accumulation of spermatozoa in the sperm duct. In the sex-changed fish, plasma levels of E2 were significantly low, while both testosterone (T) and 11KT were significantly increased. Our results suggest that 11KT plays an important role in sex change in the honeycomb grouper. Whether the mechanism of 11KT-induced female-to-male sex change acts through direct stimulation of spermatogenesis in the ovary or via the inhibition of estrogen synthesis remains to be clarified.

Evidence that estrogen regulates the sex change of honeycomb grouper (Epinephelus merra), a protogynous hermaphrodite fish

Circulating estradiol-17beta (E2) levels decrease precipitously during female to male (protogynous) sex change in fish. Whether this drop in E2 levels is a cause or consequence of sex change is still largely unknown. The present study treated adult female honeycomb groupers (Epinephelus merra) with aromatase inhibitor (AI, Fadrozole), either alone or in combination with E2, to investigate the role of estrogen in protogynous sex change. Control fish had ovaries undergoing active vitellogenesis; the gonads of AI-treated fish had already developed into testes, which produced sperm capable of fertilization. In contrast, co-treatment of fish with E2 completely blocked AI-induced sex reversal. AI treatment significantly reduced circulating levels of E2, whereas the addition of E2 to AI prevented the loss. The plasma androgen (testosterone and 11-ketotestosterone) levels were increased in the AI-treated fish, while the levels in the E2-supplemented fish were low compared to controls. Present results show that E2 plays an important role in maintaining female sex of hermaphrodite fishes, and that the inhibition of E2 synthesis causes oocyte degeneration leading to testicular differentiation in the ovary.

Aromatase inhibitor induces complete sex change in the protogynous honeycomb grouper (Epinephelus merra)

The protogynous hermaphrodite fish change sex from female to male at the certain stages of life cycle. The endocrine mechanisms involved in gonadal restructuring throughout protogynous sex change are not clearly understood. In the present study, we implanted maturing female honeycomb groupers with nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor (AI), Fadrozole (0, 1, and 10 mg/fish) and examined changes in gonadal structures and serum levels of sex steroid hormones 2(1/2) months after implantation. The ovaries of control females had oocytes undergoing active vitellogenesis, whereas AI caused females to develop into functional males. These males had testes, which were indistinguishable in structure from those of normal males, but bigger in size, and completed all stages of spermatogenesis including accumulation of large amount of sperm in the seminiferous tubules. AI significantly reduced the serum levels of estradiol-17beta (E2) and increased levels of testosterone (T), 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT), and 17alpha, 20beta-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (DHP). Further, AI suppressed in vitro production of E2, and stimulated the production of T and 11-KT in the ovarian fragments of mature female. In the honeycomb grouper, suppression of both in vitro and in vivo production of E2 and degeneration of oocytes by AI suggests that AI induces complete sex change through inhibition of estrogen biosynthesis, and perhaps, subsequent induction of androgen function.

Perception and possible utilization of moonlight intensity for reproductive activities in a lunar-synchronized spawner, the golden rabbitfish

Rabbitfishes are known to spawn synchronously around the species-specific lunar phase. It is considered that they perceive and utilize cues from the moon in order to be synchronized gonadal development and spawning with the lunar cycle. Using the golden rabbitfish, Siganus guttatus, which spawns synchronously around the first quarter moon during the reproductive season, we measured the fluctuation of melatonin levels and examined the response of the fish to moonlight intensity. Daily fluctuation of melatonin concentration in the blood of golden rabbitfish showed low levels during daytime and high levels during night-time, suggesting that melatonin functions in the perception and utilization of photoperiod. Plasma melatonin concentration at the new moon was higher than that at the full moon. When the fish were exposed to moonlight at midnight of the both moon phases, the melatonin concentrations decreased to the control levels. These results show that the fish possibly perceive moonlight intensity and plasma melatonin fluctuates according to 'lightness' at a point of night. At the first spawning period (experiment was started one month before the spawning), the fish reared under natural conditions spawned at the expected spawning dates, whereas the fish reared under the constant darkness and lightness of night did not spawn. At the second spawning period (experiment was started 2 weeks before the spawning), the fish reared under the conditions of natural and constant darkness of night spawned but not that of constant lightness of night. It is possible that night conditions are related to synchronous gonadal development and spawning in the golden rabbitfish.

Gonadal Restructuring and Correlative Steroid Hormone Profiles during Natural Sex Change in Protogynous Honeycomb Grouper (Epinephelus merra)

The honeycomb grouper shows protogynous hermaphroditism. The endocrine mechanisms involved in gonadal restructuring throughout protogynous sex change are largely unknown. In the present study, we investigated changes in the gonadal structures and levels of serum sex steroid hormones during female to male sex change in the honeycomb grouper. On the basis of histological changes, entire process of sex change was assigned into four developmental phases: female, early transition (ET), late transition (LT), and male phase. At the female phase, the oocytes of several developmental stages were observed including gonial germ cells in the periphery of ovigerous lamellae. At the beginning of ET phase, perinucleolar and previtellogenic oocytes began degenerating, followed by proliferation of spermatogonia toward the center of lamella. The LT phase was characterized by further degeneration of oocytes and rapid proliferation of spermatogenic germ cells throughout the gonad. At the male phase, no ovarian cells were observed and testis had germ cells undergoing active spermatogenesis. Serum levels of estradiol-17beta (E2) were high in females in the breeding season, but low in the non-breeding female, transitional and male phase, and those of 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT) and testosterone (T) were low in females and gradually increased in the transitional and male phase. The present results suggest that low serum E2 levels and degeneration of oocytes accompanied by concomitant increase in the 11-KT levels and proliferation of spermatogenic germ cells are probably the events mediating protogynous sex change in the honeycomb grouper.

Hormonal changes in relation to lunar periodicity in the testis of the forktail rabbitfish, Siganus argenteus

Correlation of hormonal changes in the testis and the lunar periodicity was studied using the forktail rabbitfish, Siganus argenteus, which spawns synchronously around the last quarter moon. Weekly change in sperm motility peaked around the last quarter moon. The pH and osmolality in the seminal fluid increased and decreased around the same lunar phase, respectively. These results suggest that the testis of this species develops toward the specific lunar phase. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) stimulated in vitro production of 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT) in the testicular fragments around the full moon. When the testicular fragments and the sperm preparations were incubated, respectively, with testosterone (T) and 17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone (17alpha-OHP), conversion of T to 11-KT in the testicular fragments decreased and, alternatively, that of 17alpha-OHP to 17alpha,20beta-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (DHP) in the sperm preparations increased from the full moon to the last quarter moon. Administration of the fish with hCG or DHP prior to the predicted spawning lunar day resulted in increases in the sperm motility and the seminal fluid pH. Plasma level of DHP, but not T and 11-KT, increased after hCG injection. These results indicate that gonadotropin (GtH) and DHP are related to the final stage of testicular maturation, and that GtH acts through production of DHP in the testis. Moreover, the present study shows that use of the lunar cue(s) in the rabbitfish occurs in the higher part of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis.